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In 1872 the Idaho Territorial Prison opened its doors to some of the most...

In 1872 the Idaho Territorial Prison opened its doors to some of the most desperate and mean criminals the West could offer. In 1973 the Idaho State Penitentiary closed to inmates. Now our doors are open for visitors to explore over 100 years of Idaho's unique prison history. Open year-round, visitors of the Old Idaho Penitentiary can walk through solitary confinement, cell blocks, and the gallows. Visit today and relive the Old Pen's exciting past of daring escapes, scandals, and executions. Call for more details about special events, educational programs and guided tours.

We took a tour of the penitentiary in July. They are offered for free or you can do a self guided tour. The tour guide was very informative and gave great insight as to how the prison was when it was open and housing inmates. We saw the gallows and the death row cells. My husband and I both worked...
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We visited this in the winter and it gave another dimension to the conditions the prisoners had to endure during the cold and especially in solitary confinement which is called Siberia. You can climb into a cell and the tour guides are knowledgeable and entertaining.
Great for local residents as well as out of towners. 2 thumbs up!

Outside of Alcatraz (which I know can get a little ridiculous) this was the best prison tour I've done. It's self guided, but you can go in some of the cells (including solitary confinement), and the signage does really give you a great idea of what life was like for many of these prisoners. The history really does come alive....
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I attended a winter guided tour of the penitentiary. It was cold, and that cold was exactly how it would have felt to the inmates who were doing time. You need to be ready to go up and down stairs, and walk outside as well as in. Well worth the time. Plan on a couple of hours to see everything....
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One of the reasons we stopped in Boise on our cross-country trip was to see this penitentiary. Very friendly and informative lady at the counter. Felt like we had the prison to ourselves. You're able to walk through the Women's Ward, the general population and ruins from the prison fires resulting from riots. You really understand what solitary confinement means...
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Did a night tour with family. Found our tour guide competent and knowledgeable. Some of the stories and pictures will forever be burned into my memory. But it was worth the tour. I would take friends there again.

The old Penitentiary offers a glimpse into the past when touring around these historic buildings. There is a rich history here and picturesque scenery. It is located in the Boise Foothills and near the Botanical Gardens.

Visited the old penitentiary on one of the hottest days of the year. If you visit during the hot summer months bring water.
Our tour was hosted by Mr. A. Regan who shared great knowledge of the old prison. The took about an hour and a half and Mr. Regan shared many stories surrounding the penitentiary.
This is a good...
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I can remember going on class field trips to the Old Idaho Penitentiary as a child. Now, my husband and I take our own children to visit and tour this old pen at least every other year. My Dad actually worked at this penitentiary as a correctional officer, or guard, as they were called back then, many years ago. So...
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